12-13-01 Planning Comm. Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION DECEMBER 13, 2001 Knudsen stated that he supported the development proposal, but wanted to be sure that a look was taken at options for improvements to Park Street or options for access via Rice Street. Roycraft asked if there would be landscaping along the eastern edge of the property to fit the development into the residential area. Gosman replied that there would be landscaping in this area and pointed out that the exteriors of the buildings would have a residential appearance to them. Duray asked about the setback on the southern edge of the property. The City Planner indicated that a S-foot setback is proposed which complies with Code requirements. He also noted his recommendation for additional landscaping in this area to provide screening from the residential use. Gosman reported that they would plant spruce or similar screening materials to shield the view from the apartment building. The City Administrator suggested that the option of access to Rice Street via pond relocation and mitigation be investigated. I3arraclough asked if there would be an owners association for maintenance of the buildings and common property. Gosman replied that once the units are sold, the association would be transferred to the owners. Duray was concerned that once the developer sold the units, they would have nothing left to do with the property, but the surrounding property owners would be left to live with the development. Gosman pointed out that the townoffices will be owner-occupied, and that owners tend to take better care of their property. The City Planner pointed out that the property is zoned commercial, and that the development proposed is not very commercial looking. It has a low profile, residential style to it. The Planner also indicated that this type of development generates low traffic volumes. The Planner pointed out the recent proposal by Montanari I-comes for senior housing on this site. The City Council denied that proposal and informed the applicant to come back with an office complex development. The Planner felt that this proposal was reasonable and would have less impact on the area than other potential commercial uses. Knudsen felt that the City will not get a better commercial use for this site than the one proposed this evening by Montanari Homes. While he supported the development proposal, Knudsen felt that the possibility of access via Rice Street or improvements to Park Street that would better support the development should be explored. 5